Quick Giron Travel Guide (+ Map)
TL;DR
Our Giron travel guide covers everything you need to know about visiting this charming heritage town near Bucaramanga – what to see, where to stay, and whether it's worth a stop on your Colombia itinerary.
If you’re travelling through Colombia and wondering whether Girón is worth a stop, you’re not alone. Tucked just 15 minutes from Bucaramanga, this colonial town often flies under the radar – but catches the eye of travellers looking for charm without the crowds.
Girón is one of Colombia’s officially protected heritage towns, known for its whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and peaceful pace. But if you're hoping for blockbuster attractions or a packed itinerary, you might leave disappointed. The main appeal lies in simply wandering and soaking in the atmosphere.
In our guide, you’ll find everything from how to get there, what to see, and where to stay. We also answer the question: Should you stay in Girón or base yourself in Bucaramanga instead?
This guide is for curious travellers who appreciate authentic places and honest advice. If you’re looking for a quick detour, a scenic stopover, or just want to know if Girón deserves a spot on your route, read on.
Giron Travel Guide
Giron Colombia Map
Is Giron Worth Visiting?
San Juan de Girón, better known as Girón, is one of 17 Colombian towns with protected national heritage status. In 1959, the whole town was declared a Colombian national monument.
Giron is famous for its cobblestone streets, houses with white walls, large dark brown and/or black doors, and clay tile roofs. Still, it has a very local feel – almost a bit rough around the edges – with not too many tourist attractions around.
Personally, we wouldn’t go out of our way to visit, but because of its location, Girón is a perfect stopover between the Caribbean coast and places like Medellín, Bogota, or San Gil.
Should you Stay in Giron or Bucaramanga?
Girón and Bucaramanga are only a 15-minute drive apart, so the question might arise whether it’s better to base yourself in Girón or Bucaramanga.
Girón |
Bucaramanga |
|
Atmosphere |
Colonial and picturesque. | Urban and lively. |
Transportation |
Walkable. | More spread out. Need to take an Uber or public transport. |
Activities |
Wandering around the cobblestone streets. | Shopping, nightlife, museums that are actually open, parks, and easier access to adventure sports. |
Dining |
Small, local eateries with regional cuisine. | Diverse restaurants, bars, and international food options. |
Accommodation |
Small hotels, often in historic buildings. | Wide range: from budget to luxury hotels with rooftop pools. |
Ideal For |
Travellers seeking a small and scenic escape. | Travellers looking for convenience, entertainment, and city amenities. |
Here’s our complete Bucaramanga travel guide:
How to Get to Giron
Giron is a 15-minute drive from the bus terminal in Bucaramanga.
Bucaramanga is well connected to locations like:
- Cartagena to Bucaramanga, 13.5 hours
- Santa Marta to Bucaramanga, 9 hours
- Riohacha to Bucaramanga, 12.5 hours
- Medellin to Bucaramanga, 7 hours
- Bogota to Bucaramanga, 9.5 hours
- San Gil to Bucaramanga, 2.5 hours
How to Get Around Giron
The historical centre of Giron is walkable.
The Metrolinea buses that operate in Buacaramnga also go to Giron.
Uber is very affordable and ended up being our mode of transport of choice.
Where to Stay in Giron
Maybe you already know, but we love the Trip Monkey hostels. The Trip Monkey Girón is located right on the main square, and the staff is lovely!
Things to Do in Giron
1. Parque Principal de Girón
The parque principal or main square is the heart of Giron. It’s where you can find the main church, Minor Basilica of Saint John the Baptist, with its beautiful Baroque architecture, as well as the town hall, which was constructed in 1631.
2. Puntes de Calicanto
Giron is known for its many bridges, which lead over a small canal in the centre of town. Just keep your eyes open while walking around.
3. Plazuela Peralta
Plazuela Peralta is a cute square where you can taste traditional ice desserts like maracumix, rasapao or cocadas.
4. Casa De La Cultura Francisco Mantilla De Los Ríos
Here, you can find the tourism office of Giron as well as free public toilets. Sometimes, there are exhibitions.
5. Nuestra Señora de las Nieves Park
A small park lined with white houses. The Chapel of Nuestra Señora de las Nieves was the first chapel built in Giron more than 400 years ago.
6. Nuestra Señora de Mongui Cemetery
This is the main cemetery of Giron. Still, stepping into Cementerio Nuestra Señora de Mongui feels like stepping into a quiet refuge.
7. La Puerta Grande de Girón
Although the arch may appear purely decorative, residents of Girón strongly associate it with the town’s central cemetery, as it once served as its original entrance. In the local imagination, passing through the gate symbolised a point of no return as it was the final passage for those on their way to be buried.
8. Plaza de Mercado Central de Girón
A market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts.
How Many Days in Giron Do You Need
Honestly, while Giron is a cute city, there’s not a ton to do. Personally, we would treat Giron as a one-day stopover if you’re travelling from the coast to Medellin, Bogota, or San Gil.
If you have loads of time and/or plan to visit more sights in the area around Girón and Bucaramanga, two days should still be plenty.
Giron Tips
ATMs in Giron
Giron is a huge city with over 200000 inhabitants. You’ll have no problem finding an ATM.
Supermarkets in Giron
There are plenty of supermarkets in Giron. For example, there’s a D1 right on the main square.
Internet in Giron
Again, Giron is a huge city. You shouldn’t have any problems with your internet connection.
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